Summer Class Descriptions

PRE-BALLET [ages 5-7]

This 40 minute class designed to introduce students to a more formal study of classical ballet through age appropriate skill development, creative expression, and music appreciation, while exploring the connection between dance, rhythm, and music. Age appropriate ballet vocabulary is included in the lessons complemented by stretching and strengthening exercises in preparation for more formal training. No prior dance experience needed.

BALLET [ages 7+]*

Ballet is the foundation for all dance training. Students will be instructed in barre work, center floor work, and traveling steps in order to develop the essential technique of balance, body control, and muscle memory. Ballet also promotes flexibility and muscular strength while emphasizing correct body placement. *Placement class required for Int./Adv. level class.

JAZZ [ages 7+]

Jazz is the style of dance often seen on Broadway or television. This class will include stretching, isolations, strengthening exercises, and across the floor exercises including turns and leaps, followed by a combination that is usually fast-paced and rhythmically-based. Kids love the up-beat, high energy style and personal expression that this class offers!

MODERN DANCE

This class teaches students the rudimentary movements that are the foundation to classical modern dance technique. Students will focus on contractions, spirals, floor work, and elemental concepts of space, time, and force. Several different styles of modern dance (ex./ Cunningham, Horton, and Hawkins) will be explored throughout the class, each including a variety of exercises, improvisations, and movement combinations that will allow the dancer to become comfortable moving his/her body in new ways. Placement is required to participate in this class.

BALLET HISTORY

Dancers will study and expand their knowledge of ballet terminology, staging techniques, and the history of ballet by studying classic works, famous dancers, and choreographers using video and music resources.